System, apparatus and related method for raised ground cover mat

ABSTRACT

A ground cover mat for vehicles and equipment to cross over pipes, whether laid below or above ground, wherein the mat comprises two footing members spaced at a distance from each other. Each of the footing members define therein multiple peg holes, and each of the peg holes spaced at different distances from an outer edge of a given footing member. The mat also includes one or more span members. Each of the span members are positioned above and removably attached to the two footing members. Each of the one or more span members comprise at least two pegs that protrude downwards, wherein one of the pegs removably fit into a given peg hole defined in one of the two footing members and another one of the pegs removably fit into a given peg hole defined in another one of the two footing members.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims priority to U.S. provisional patent applicationNo. 62/491,005 filed on Apr. 27, 2017, the entire contents of which areincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The following description generally relates to raised ground cover mats.

BACKGROUND

Ground cover mats are used in constructions sites to cover areas ofground and to allow vehicles and heavy machinery to drive over theground cover mats. Typically, the ground cover mats are placed overpipelines, surface lines (e.g. fluid hoses, power cables, data wires),and other objects that are to be protected. Ground cover mats are alsoplaced over ground surfaces that could be problematic for vehicles andheavy machinery to cross over. For example, soft ground, holes, ditchesand streams may be covered by a ground cover mat to enable vehicles orheavy machinery to cross over.

In the pipeline industry, pipelines are buried underneath, laid upon, orsupported in a raised position above a ground surface. Because of thedistances travelled by such pipelines, and other factors, it is oftennecessary for a road or passage to cross a pipeline. For buriedpipelines, the crossing passes over the pipeline, for example directlyor indirectly above fill material above the pipeline. Regulations maydetermine the minimum depth of fill required between the pipeline andthe road in some cases. Regardless, vibration and compression frommultiple crossings over time may lead to damage and eventual failure ofthe buried pipeline. Therefore, ground cover mats may be laid over apipeline for machinery to cross over.

Ground cover mats are also called swamp mats, rig mats, and pipelinemats. These mats are typically intended to be easy to setup and aretemporarily used. Ground cover mats are typically low profile so thatless soil or dirt is required to form a ramp leading up to the groundcover mat in order for vehicles or heavy machinery to cross over theground cover mat. A low profile also makes it easier for vehicles orheavy machinery to traverse over the ground cover mat.

In many cases, ground cover mats are created using planks of wood thatare fastened together to form a board. In some cases, oak wood is usedto create “oak mats”. These wood mats are easy to assemble on site, butare not durable and may not be able to withstand the loads of theheaving machinery and vehicles. Consequently, the pipeline or otherobject under the wooden mats may be damaged by a heavy vehicle.

US patent application publication no. 2013/0047351 describes a pipelinecrossing bridge. The arch-shaped bridge is of a fixed size and isconstructed to be one piece that is placed over a pipeline.

U.S. design Pat. No. 763,414 shows a fluid line drive over. It is onepiece having a smooth top surface and includes pipes extending throughthe interior of the structure. This design patent does not describesupporting feet to raise the structure above a ground surface.

U.S. Pat. No. 8,955,184 describes a bridge comprising multiple bridgeelements configured to be superimposed when the bridge is in a firstnon-deployed position. The bridge elements are initially verticallystacked and each two successive bridge elements are connected using apair of parallel coupling arms positioned at the sides of the bridgeelements. The coupling arms are used to articulate the bridge elementsoutwards to form a bridge that spans across a gap. The bridge elementscan be removed from the stack to vary the length of bridge. This patentdoes not describe supporting feet to raise the bridge above a groundsurface.

U.S. Pat. No. 3,768,108 describes an arched bridge that includes a pairof arched longitudinal opposite side structural members interconnectedby crossed diagonal bracing members secured there-between by bolting.This bridge is intended to be of a fixed size. Furthermore, while thisbridge is intended to be shipped disassembled and assembled on site, theassembly is time consuming as there are many parts.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,603,134 describes a portable bridge system formed fromat least a pair of rectangular bridge platforms positioned inside-by-side relationship including end locking plates for locking theplatforms together at the end regions thereof.

US patent application publication no. 2013/0284872 describes a pipelinemat. While this pipeline mat is constructed as one piece, the pipelinemat includes a slidably replaceable top layer material, such as woodplanks, for repair purposes. Each wood plank is cut to a finisheddimension with L-shaped notches at its ends in order to slide beneaththe metal frame. This patent application does not describe supportingfeet to raise the mat.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Examples embodiments of the invention are provided below, includingexample aspects of such embodiments. Additional features of theembodiments as well as additional example embodiments are described inthe figures and the detailed description.

In a general example embodiment, an adjustable ground cover mat includestwo footing members that are spaced at a spanning distance from eachother. Each of the footing members include a first lengthwise outer edgeand a second lengthwise outer edge. Each of the footing members definetherein multiple pairs of peg holes, and each pair of peg holes spacedat different distances from the first lengthwise outer edge. The pegholes within each pair of peg holes are spaced apart from each other bya first distance. The ground cover mat also includes one or more spanmembers, with each of the span members positioned above and removablyattached to the two footing members. In particular, each of the one ormore span members include at least two pairs of pegs that protrudedownwards, and the pegs within each of the pair of pegs are spaced apartfrom each other by the first distance. One pair of pegs removably fitinto a given pair of pegs holes defined in one of the two footingmembers and another pair of pegs removably fit into a given pair of pegholes defined in another one of the two footing members.

In another general example embodiment, a kit of parts is provided, thatwhen assembled form a ground cover mat. The kit of parts include twofooting members that each include a first lengthwise outer edge and asecond lengthwise outer edge. Each of these footing members definetherein multiple pairs of peg holes, and each pair of peg holes arespaced at different distances from the first lengthwise outer edge. Thepeg holes within each pair of peg holes are spaced apart from each otherby a first distance. The kit of parts further includes one or more spanmembers having a first length. Each of the span members are configuredto be positioned above and removably attached to the two footingmembers. In particular, each of the one or more span members include atleast two pairs of pegs that protrude downwards, and the pegs withineach of the pair of pegs are spaced apart from each other by the firstdistance. One pair of pegs removably fit into a given pair of pegs holesdefine in one of the two footing members and another pair of pegsremovably fit into a given pair of peg holes defined in another one ofthe two footing members.

In another general example embodiment, a method is provided forassembling a ground cover mat. The method includes laying down twofooting members on a ground surface. The two footing members spaced at aspanning distance from each other and oriented substantially parallel toeach other. Each of the footing members include a first lengthwise outeredge and a second lengthwise outer edge. Each of the footing membersdefine therein multiple pairs of peg holes, and each pair of peg holesare spaced at different distances from the first lengthwise outer edge.The peg holes within each pair of peg holes are spaced apart from eachother by a first distance. The method further includes driving one ormore ground spikes through one or more peg holes defined in each of thefooting members. For example, the ground spikes are driven into theground surface. The method further includes placing one or more spanmembers above and removably attached to the two footing members. Inparticular, each of the one or more span members include at least twopairs of pegs that protrude downwards, and the pegs within each of thepair of pegs are spaced apart from each other by the first distance. Onepair of pegs are removably fitted into a given pair of pegs holesdefined in one of the two footing members and another pair of pegs areremovably fitted into a given pair of peg holes defined in another oneof the two footing members. The given pair of pegs holes defined in theone of the two footing members and the given pair of peg holes definedin the another one of the two footing members are unoccupied by theground spikes.

In another general example embodiment, a ground cover mat includes twofooting members spaced at a spanning distance from each other, and oneor more span members. Each of the span members are positioned above andattached to the two footing members. Each of the one or more spanmembers are constructed from a metal frame and planks, and the metalframe includes two outer beams connected by multiple cross bars. Inparticular, a given plank is positioned between a given two of the crossbars. The two outer beams include an upper flange, a lower flange and aweb that is positioned between the upper flange and the lower flange. Atleast one of the upper flange and the lower flange overlap the planks tosecure the planks to a given span member. In a further example aspect,the multiple cross bars have at least a partially rounded cross-section,and the planks are rough lumber.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments will now be described by way of example only with referenceto the appended drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example cross-section of a ground covermat installed above an underground pipe with a vehicle driving above theground cover mat.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a frame of anadjustable ground cover mat, but without planks.

FIG. 2B is a top view of the frame of the ground cover mat shown in FIG.2A.

FIG. 2C is a front view of the frame of the ground cover mat shown inFIG. 2A.

FIG. 2D is a side view of the frame of the ground cover mat shown inFIG. 2A.

FIG. 3A is a perspective view of a frame of a footing member used in theadjustable ground cover mat shown in FIG. 2A, but shown in isolation.

FIG. 3B is a top view of the frame of the footing member shown in FIG.3A.

FIG. 3C is a front view of the frame of the footing member shown in FIG.3A.

FIG. 3D is an enlarged view of a portion labeled ‘A’ in FIG. 3C.

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of a frame of a span member used in theadjustable ground cover mat shown in FIG. 2A, but shown in isolation.

FIG. 4B is a top view of the frame of the span member shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4C is a side view of the frame of the span member shown in FIG. 4A.

FIG. 4D is an enlarged view of a portion labeled ‘C’ shown in FIG. 4C.

FIG. 4E is a cross-sectional view taken along the line B-B labeled inFIG. 4B.

FIG. 4F is an enlarged view of a portion labeled ‘D’ shown in FIG. 4E.

FIG. 5 is a flow diagram for an example process for assembling andinstalling an adjustable ground cover mat.

FIG. 6A is a perspective view of another example embodiment of a frameof a ground cover mat, but without the planks.

FIG. 6B is an enlarged view of a portion labeled ‘E’ shown in FIG. 6A.

FIG. 6C is a top view of the frame of the ground cover mat shown in FIG.6A.

FIG. 6D is a front view of the frame of the ground cover mat shown inFIG. 6A.

FIG. 6E is a side view of the frame of the ground cover mat shown inFIG. 6A.

FIG. 6F is an enlarged view of a portion labeled ‘F’ shown in FIG. 6E.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of an example embodiment of a ground covermat that includes wood planks positioned within the frame.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C and 8D show a series of perspective views forassembling another embodiment of an adjustable ground cover mat.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of another example embodiment of a groundcover mat that includes wood planks positioned within the frame, andthat can be used to cover surface lines.

FIG. 10 is a top view of multiple ground cover mats that are connectedtogether.

FIG. 11 is a top view of another example embodiment of a ground covermat.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

It will be appreciated that for simplicity and clarity of illustration,where considered appropriate, reference numerals may be repeated amongthe figures to indicate corresponding or analogous elements. Inaddition, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide athorough understanding of the example embodiments described herein.However, it will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the artthat the example embodiments described herein may be practiced withoutthese specific details. In other instances, well-known methods,procedures and components have not been described in detail so as not toobscure the example embodiments described herein. Also, the descriptionis not to be considered as limiting the scope of the example embodimentsdescribed herein.

It is herein recognized that typical ground cover mats constructed fromprimarily wood planks will degrade or rot over time. Furthermore, thestrength of these ground cover mats is in question, since they may notbe designed or tested to hold the weight of heavy machinery andvehicles.

It is further herein recognized that ground cover mats are typicallyused in remote areas. Therefore, shipping materials may be difficult. Itis also desirable to be able to create a ground cover mat that suits theneeds of the physical environment. However, the conditions of thephysical environment are difficult to plan, especially in remote areas.For example, in one section of a work site, technicians or buildersdesire to create a ground cover mat of a first given span, but in adifferent section of the work site, technicians or builders desire tocreate a ground cover mat of a second given span. Existing ground covermats that are of a fixed size would not be suitable to these variancesin the physical environment. In other words, there are different sizedobjects, or different sized gaps, or different sized ground features tocross over, and it is difficult to predict these variances. Furthermore,attempting to bring different sized ground cover mats or very largeground cover mats to remote areas in order to accommodate thesevariances would not be practical.

It is further herein recognized that, while ground cover mats aretypically not permanent, existing ground cover mats may slide over theground surface. Typically, dirt is placed around the ground cover mat tohold it in place, but this is not necessarily effective and may still beprone to shifting as vehicles or machinery repeatedly drive over theground cover mat. Furthermore, in slippery conditions, such as slopes,snowy surface, muddy surfaces, icy surfaces, rocky surfaces, etc.,ground cover mats are even more susceptible to shifting over the ground.Rainy weather, snowy weather, high wind, or other weather conditions mayalso cause a ground cover mat to shift. Furthermore, heavy machinery orequipment may knock the sides or edges of the ground cover mat, causingthe ground cover mat to shift. If the ground cover mat shifts, then theobject that is to be protected below the ground cover mat may be at riskto being damaged. Or, a shifting ground cover mat positioned over a gap,a stream or another ground feature, may lead to a vehicle or a machinegetting stuck while crossing over the ground cover mat. Therefore, it isherein recognized that the ground cover mat should be anchored to theground.

It is further herein recognized that a ground cover mat should be ruggedand durable, so that it can handle heavy machinery or large vehiclescrossing over the ground cover mat. For example, vehicles with metaltracks, heavy machinery with push blades, and other types of vehiclesmay cross over the ground cover mat.

It is further herein recognized that the many ground cover mats are noteasy to transport due to their large size. In particular, transporttrucks have limited load dimensions, and it is desirable to transport aground cover mat using conventionally sized transport trucks. While someground cover mats or bridges can be assembled on site, these structurestypically require many parts and therefore, many assembly steps. It isherein recognized that it is desirable to assemble a ground cover mat ina quick manner with less effort.

It is also herein recognized that certain parts, such as wood parts, maybreak down or degrade, and that it is desirable to replace these woodparts on-site. It is also herein recognized that it is difficult toobtain dimensional lumber, or dressed lumber, in remote areas. Instead,rough lumber is typically more readily available in remote areas. Usingrough lumber in a ground cover mat is challenging since rough lumber maybe twisted, cupped and bowed to varying extents. In other words, roughlumber may have variation in width and thickness.

The proposed example ground cover mat and related methods address one ormore of the above issues.

In an example embodiment, the ground cover mat includes the followingmain components: one or more span members, and at least two footingmembers. A given span member sits on top of the two footing members,creating an air gap below the given span member. In particular, the twofooting members are spaced apart from each other. In an exampleembodiment, the footing members are substantially parallel to eachother.

In an example aspect, a combination of a metal frame and wood planksform each of the span members and the footing members.

In an example aspect, the span members and the footing members can bedisassembled and assembled on site. In an alternative example, the spanmembers and the footing members are fixed to each other, for example, bywelding.

The top surface of the span member or span members forms a top surfacethat is raised above the ground. Equipment or a vehicle can drive overthe ground cover mat.

In an example of an adjustable ground cover mat, each footing member hasmultiple peg holes at different positions, each of the one or more spanmembers has pegs that insert into the peg holes. A person assembling theground cover mat selects the distance between the footings by usingcertain peg holes to mate with the pegs of the span member.

In another example, the span members come in different dimensions, whichprovides additional adjustability in the span of the ground cover mat.

Therefore, one or both of the following approaches may be used to adjustthe length of the air gap under the span member: 1) selecting the pegholes; and 2) selecting the size of the span member.

The ground cover mat is assembled on site, which makes transportation ofthe parts easier. The adjustability features allows a person to adjustthe length of the air gap under the span member to cover a pipe while onsite.

In an example embodiment, a ground spike is driven through one or moreunused peg holes of the footing members and into the ground below. Thisground spike would serve to restrict the movement of the ground covermat. The ground cover mat can be secured to a slope, soft ground, orslippery ground using the ground spikes.

In certain example embodiments, multiple span members are aligned andconnected in order to span the entire width of the two footing members.In an example version, three span members are joined together over twofootings.

The ground cover mat can accommodate undulations, and even twistsbecause of the multiple span members.

In example construction of the ground cover mat, rough cut lumberpieces, which may have uneven surfaces and variations in dimensions, areplaced between metal pipes that are used to form the frame. By usingpipes, or other rounded bars with surfaces, it is easier to place thelumber between the pipes. Rough cut lumber is more readily available inthe construction areas, which makes construction of the ground cover mateasier. Similarly, repairs using rough cut lumber will be easier as itis more readily available.

The lumber in the ground cover mat is not bolted down, but rather heldin place by the pipes, the under bar support, the over strips and theend caps. The old lumber in the ground cover mat can be replaced byremoving the end caps, sliding out the old lumber, and inserting the newlumber.

While the ground cover mats described herein are described in exampleswith respect to pipelines, whether below surface or above, and surfacelines (e.g. hoses, power cables, data wires), it will be appreciatedthat the ground cover mat can also be placed over other objects that areto be protected. The ground cover mats described herein may also beplaced over ground surfaces that could be problematic for vehicles andheavy machinery to cross over. For example, soft ground, holes, ditchesand streams may be covered by a ground cover mat to enable vehicles orheavy machinery to cross over.

Turning to FIG. 1, a cross-section view of ground cover mat is shown inuse over a pipe 106 laid under the ground surface 104. The ground covermat includes two footing members 103 that are spaced apart from eachother, and one or more span members 101 that sit on and are supported bythe footing members. This creates an air gap 109 between the bottomsurface of the one or more span members 101 and the ground surface 104.

When the ground cover mat is installed, span members 101 are positionedabove the pipe 106 and the footing members 103 are positioned away fromthe pipe. In this way, when a vehicle 108 or other heavy machinerypasses over ground cover mat, the weight is applied and distributed ontothe ground surface in areas that are peripheral to the pipe, rather thandirectly above the pipe.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, ground spikes 105 are placed throughholes defined in the footing members 102. The ground spikes extend downbelow the ground surface 104.

Additional dirt 107 may be placed over the top of the footing membersand the top of the span members. The dirt creates a gradual ramp overthe ground cover mat for vehicles to traverse. The dirt also protectsthe top surface of the ground cover mat from wear and tear. Othermaterial, such as clay and wood mats may be placed over the ground covermat.

FIGS. 2A to 2D show different view of an assembled frame of a groundcover mat 200 having adjustability features. The ground cover mat frame200 includes two footing members 201, 202 and multiple span members 203,204, 205. The frame is constructed from metal components and is shown inthese figures without the wood planks so as to clearly show thecomponents of the frame. While three span members are shown in thisexample embodiment, it will be appreciated that other embodiments of theground cover mat can use a different number of span members.

In the example, the span member 203 includes two outer beams 206 thatare connected to each other with multiple bars 207 that cross from oneouter beam to the other outer beam. Wood planks are positioned betweenthe spaces the bars 207, and are further held in place by the two outerbeams 206. The outer beams 206, for example, are I-beams that have upperand lower flanges to hold the wood in place.

In an example embodiment, the bars 207 have a square-shapedcross-section but with tapered or rounded corners. This allows for woodplanks to be more easily placed in between each pair of bars 207 duringassembly and repair. In an example embodiment, the bars 207 are pipeshaving a circular cross-section, which also helps to more easily insertthe wood planks between two of these bars. Cross-sections that haverounded corners, or are generally rounded, or are circular, areespecially helpful when the wood is rough lumber since rough lumbertends to have variances in shape.

In an alternative example embodiment, the bars 207 have edges. Inanother example embodiment, the wood is dimensioned lumber. In otherexample embodiments, other materials are used to form the planks thatare placed between the bars 207. For example, concrete, plastic,composite materials, and other materials are used in alternativeembodiments. In other words, different materials and different shapesmay be used in the construction of the ground cover mat.

The footing members 201, 202 have a similar frame construction as thespan members. In particular, a given footing member includes two longouter beams 211 that are connected by multiple cross bars 210. Woodplanks are place between the spaces of the cross bars 210 and are heldin place with the flanges of the outer beams 211. In an exampleembodiment, the outer beams 211 are I-beams having upper and lowerflanges.

In an example aspect, the wood planks are rectangular pieces and do nothave any notches. In other words, the wood planks can be easily andquickly formed by cutting the lumber to length. In another example, thewood planks are not held in place with screws, bolts, clips, adhesive orother types of similar fasteners. Therefore, assembling the wood plankswith the metal frame requires less time, effort and components. In otherwords, in an example embodiment of the ground cover mat, each wood plankis held in place by the frame structure that surrounds each given woodplank.

As best shown in FIG. 2A, the footing members include peg holes that aredefined within sleeves 208 a, 208 b. Pegs 209 that protrude downwardsfrom a span member are shown to be inserted into the peg holes. Thissecures the footing members to the span members.

As best shown in FIG. 2B, the spanning distance S2 between the innersides of the footing members can be adjusted by placing the pegs intodifferent peg holes. Alternatively, or in addition, a different lengthspan member may be used to vary the distance S2.

It will be appreciated that the spanning distance S2, which determinesthe span of the air gap, can be selected based on the size of the objectto cross over (e.g. crossing over a pipe, a cable line, etc.), or basedon the size of the ground feature to cross over (e.g. a stream, a ditch,etc.). Changing S2 also accordingly changes the distance S1, which isthe span distance between the outer sides of the footing members.

FIG. 2C shows the overall width W1 of the assembled span members. W2 isthe width of the entire ground cover mat, including the footing members,which in this embodiment is shown to be wider than W1.

However, in another example embodiment, W2 and W1 are equal, since theedge of the span members are flush with the edge of the footing members.

FIG. 2D shows a side view. It can be seen that the height H1 isrelatively small and low profile. This makes it easier for vehicles andequipment to traverse over the ground cover mat, since there is lessdisturbance or undulation in the grade of the ground surface even whenthe ground cover mat is installed.

In a non-limiting example embodiment, S2 is adjustable betweenapproximately 48 inches, approximately 72 inches and approximately 96inches, and S1 is respectively approximately 192 inches, approximately216 inches or approximately 240 inches. W1 is approximately 296 inches.W2 is approximately 303 inches. H1 is approximately 14.0625 inches.

It will be appreciated that other dimensions and proportions, which aredifferent from what is shown and described in the examples, are alsoapplicable to the ground cover mat.

The ground cover mat 200 may be conveniently transported as a kit ofparts that includes at least two footing members 201, 202, and one ormore span members. In an example aspect, there are two span members. Inan example aspect, there are three span members 203, 204, 205. Inanother example aspect, the kit of parts further includes two moreground spikes 105. In an example aspect, the ground spikes are shaped tofit within the peg holes positioned on the footing members.

Turning to FIGS. 3A to 3D, different views of a frame of a footingmember 201, 202 is shown in isolation. The wood planks are not shownassembled with the frame in order to more clearly show the frameconstruction.

As best seen in FIGS. 3A and 3B, there are multiple pin holes defined ineach footing member. In particular, there are multiple pairs of pegholes defined in each section of the footing member. For example, if thefooting member is configured to be assembled with three span members,then there are at least three sections 350, 352, 352 within a givenfooting member to correspond with the three span members.

In the example shown, each peg hole is defined within a peg sleeve. Thepeg sleeve has a square-like cross-section and, for example, is formedfrom a section of a square pipe or bar with a hollow interior. The peghole is sized and shaped to receive the peg on the span member. In otherwords, the peg has a complimentary square-like cross-section. In anexample embodiment, the peg hole is slightly larger than the peg. Thepeg sleeve is formed from metal.

While a peg sleeve is shown, it will be appreciated that otherstructures may be used to define a peg hole. In general, other shapes ofpeg holes and other structures used to define the peg hole areapplicable to the ground cover mat. In general, the peg hole and the pegshould mate and restrict lateral movement between the footing member andthe span member. Therefore, while the term “peg sleeve” is used in theexample, it will be appreciated that alternative structures used todefine a peg hole are applicable.

Returning to FIGS. 3A and 3B, in section 350, there are three pairs ofpeg sleeves. A first pair of peg sleeves 208 a, 208 b, a second pair ofpeg sleeves 303 a, 303 b, and a third pair of peg sleeves 304 a, 304 bare arranged at different distances from each other in order to vary thespan.

In particular, in FIG. 3B, L0 represents a dimension line correspondingto the first outer edge of the footing member. L1, L2, and L3 representdimension lines marking the position of the center of the peg holesdefined respectively in peg sleeves 304 a, 303 a, and 208 a. It will beappreciated that all the peg holes, and thus the peg sleeves, arehorizontally aligned with the dimension lines L1, L2, L3. A firstdistance is defined between L0 and L1; a second distance between L0 andL2 is defined, and it is greater than the first distance; and a thirddistance between L0 and L3 is defined, and it is greater than the seconddistance.

L4 is the dimension line corresponding to the second outer edge of thefooting member, opposite of L0. In an example embodiment, the distancebetween L0 and L1 and the distance between L3 and L4 are approximatelythe same. In this way, the footing member may be used in differentorientations (e.g. rotated 180 degrees).

As will be appreciated, a first span member with a pair of pegs may beinserted at section 350 into the peg sleeve pairs 304 a, 304 b, or 303a, 303 b or 208 a,208 b.

Similarly, a second span member with a pair of pegs may be inserted atsection 351 into the peg sleeve pairs 307 a, 307 b, or 306 a, 306 b, or305 a, 305 b. Similarly, a third span member with a pair of pegs may beinserted at section 352 into the peg sleeve pairs 310 a, 310 b, or 309a, 309 b, or 308 a, 308 b.

One or more of the peg holes that are not occupied, or that will not beoccupied, by the pegs may be used to receive ground spikes. The groundspikes have a similar cross-section shape as the pegs and therefore arecompatible with the peg holes. The ground spikes are placed through theunoccupied peg holes and into the ground, in order to anchor the footingmember to the ground.

FIG. 3D shows an enlarged section A taken from FIG. 3C. The lug 301 isshown protruding outwards and defining therein a hole to receive a bolt.The lugs 301 on different foot members, with the bolts and nuts, areused to connect multiple ground cover mats together to form a continuousand wide ground cover mat. This is beneficial when traversing over along pipe, cable, ditch, or stream.

As shown in FIG. 3D, in an example embodiment, the cross bar 210 restson the top surface of the bottom flange of the beams 211, where thebeams 211 are I-beams.

FIGS. 4A to 4F show different views of a frame of a span member inisolation. The frame of the span member, for example, is used for thespan member 203, 204 and 205. Again, the wood planks are not shown inthese figures to more clearly show the frame construction. However, thewood planks are placed between the cross bars 207. The cross bars extendbetween two beams 206. For example, these beams are I-beams.

While many of the beams are I-beams in the ground cover mat, beamshaving other cross-section shapes may be used.

A given span member includes a lug 401 protruding from each corner. Twoend caps 402 are positioned on opposite ends. In an example embodiment,the lugs are used for lifting the span member. In another exampleembodiment, the lugs are also used for alignment. For example, the lugsof two different span members are aligned with each other, and a bolt ora pin is placed through the holes defined respective in each lug. Inthis way, the lugs of different span members can be used to align witheach other and maintain the alignment.

It will also be appreciated that there other mechanism can be used toalign the span members with each other. For examples, clips, clasps,spring-loaded protrusions (e.g. detents), and magnets, are alternativemechanisms that may be used for alignment. Similarly, differentfastening mechanisms, other than lugs, may be used to fasten togetherdifferent instances of ground cover mats. For example, clips, clasps,spring-loaded protrusions (e.g. detents), and magnets are examples ofdifferent mechanisms to fasten together different instances of groundcover mats.

In the outer sections, a secondary cross bar 403 is placed between anoutermost cross bar 207′ and an immediately adjacent cross bar 207″. Asshown, there are two of these secondary cross bars 403 in the samesection. A metal plate 404 is welded between the upper and the lowerflanges of the I-beam. The plate is used to strengthen the corners ofthe flanges so that they do not bend inwards.

There are also four pegs 405. 406, 407, 408 that protrude downwards fromthe bottom of the span member. These four legs are positioned towardsthe corners of the span member.

In an example embodiment, the pegs are welded or adjoined to one of thestructural components that form the frame of the span member.

As per FIG. 4C, different embodiment of the span member may havedifferent length values L1. In this way, the spanning distance of theair gap may be varied. In one example embodiment, L1 is 16 feet. Inanother example embodiment, L2 is 20 feet. It will be appreciated thatthe distances for L1 may vary. In an example embodiment, the distance L2between the peg and the outer edge of the span is 2 feet. However, otherdistances of L2 are applicable.

From the cross-section view shown in FIG. 4E, taken along the lines B-Bin FIG. 4B, the distance D1 between the peg and the other outer edge isshown.

In a non-limiting example embodiment, D1 is 5.5 inches. However, otherdistances may be used.

In an example embodiment, D1 is sized so that, in assembly, the spanmembers are placed beside each other with little gap. See FIG. 2A, whichshows three span members positioned within the peg holes and placedside-by-side with little gap. Other ways for determining or sizing D1can be used.

As shown in FIG. 4F, the bottom surface of the cross bar 207 rests onthe top surface of the bottom flange 410. In particular, the beam 206 isan I-beam with top flange 409, a bottom flange 410 and a web 411extending there between. The secondary cross bar 403 is flush with thebottom flange 410. FIG. 5 shows a method for assembling and installingan adjustable ground cover mat. For example, a kit of parts thatincludes the footing members, one or more span members, and groundspikes, can be used to assemble the adjustable ground cover mat. Atblock 501, the footing members are laid down at a desired span distanceaway from each other, and are oriented to be substantially parallel toeach other.

For example, the span distance can be determined on-site based on thepipe or other obstacle to be crossed over. Accordingly, the ground covermat can be adjusted on site to suit the desired span distance.

At block 502, the ground spikes are anchored through the peg holes andinto the ground surface below. It will be appreciated that the groundspikes are not required to form the ground cover mat.

At block 503, one or more span sections are placed across the footingmembers with the pegs positioned within the unused or unoccupied pegholes.

At block 504, dirt, mats or other materials are placed over a portionof, or all of, the top surfaces of the assembled ground cover mat.

It will be appreciated that a ground cover mat that has already beeninstalled on the ground can be disassembled and re-assembled accordingto a different desired span distance. It will also be appreciated that aground cover mat that is already installed on the ground to create afirst spanning distance, can later on be partially disassembled andreadjusted to form a second spanning distance (i.e. which is differentthan the first spanning distance).

It will be appreciated that while the embodiment shown in FIG. 4 hadeach span member having four pegs, another example embodiment includesonly two pegs at opposite ends of the span member. For example one ofthe two pegs fits into one footing member, and the other one of the twopegs fits into another footing member. Accordingly, the footing memberof this assembly includes multiple pegs that are positioned toaccommodate the pegs of the span members.

For example, turning to FIG. 11, another example embodiment 1100 of anadjustable ground cover mat is shown from the top view. The dotted linesrepresent parts of the structure not visible to the eye, but are locatedbelow the span members 1101, 1102, 1103. These span members areconnected at opposite ends to a first footing member 1105 and a secondfooting member 1104.

The footing member 1104 has multiple peg holes 1106, 1107, 1108 that arecollinear with each other, but are spaced at different distances awayfrom an outer lengthwise edge of the footing member 1104. Similarly, thefooting member 1105 has multiple peg holes 1109, 1110, 1111 that arecollinear with each other, but are spaced at different distances awayfrom an outer lengthwise edge of the footing member 1105.

The span member 1101 has two pegs 1112 and 1113 that are positioned at,or towards, opposite ends of the span member, and protrude downwards.Peg 1112 is removably fitted into the peg hole 1109 on the footingmember 1105. Peg 1113 is removably fitted into the peg hole 1106 on thefooting member 1104.

It will also be appreciated that while square shaped or rectangularshaped cross-sections are shown in the drawings for the pegs and the pegholes, other shapes are applicable to the pegs and the peg holes. Forexample, other examples of shapes include crescent shape, key-shape,circle shape, diamond shape, triangle shape, and trapezoidal shape.

One or more ground spikes may be driven through the unoccupied peg holes(e.g. 1107, 1108, 1110, 1111).

Turning to FIGS. 6A to 6F, different views of another example embodimentof a frame of a ground cover mat 600 is shown. This embodiment is notadjustable. The wood planks are not shown in the figures so as to moreclearly show the frame construction. However, it will be appreciatedthat there are wood planks positioned within the frame.

The ground cover mat 600 includes two footing members 651 and a spanmember 650 that is fixed to the footing members 651.

The span member 650 is formed from two outer bars 609 that are connectedby cross bars 620. For example, the cross bars are I-beams, but othershapes may be used to from the cross bars.

Above the cross bars 620 are pipes 603 that extend along the length ofthe span member. The pipes 603 are substantially parallel to the outerbars 609. Placed between the pipes 603 are wood planks that extend alongthe length of the span member. Although not shown, there are five woodplanks that are placed between and are separated by the pipes 603. In anexample embodiment, the wood planks are rough lumber. In another exampleembodiment, the wood planks are dimensioned lumber. In another exampleembodiment, the planks are made from material other than lumber,including but not limited to composites, plastics and metal.

An end bar 605 is placed on opposite ends of the span member 650, andeach end bar is substantially perpendicular to the outer bars 609. Metalstrips 611 are secured to the top surfaces of the outer bars 609 and areused to hold the planks in place.

In an example construction of the span member, the wood planks are fitinto their respective pockets between the pipes, and then the metalstrips 611 are secured into place. In an example construction, the metalstrips are welded to the top surfaces of the outer beams.

The frame of each footing member 651 is similarly constructed usingpipes 604, strips 610, planks placed between the pipes (not shown), andend bars 607. A right angled bracket 606 includes a horizontal flangeextending into the space between the bars, so that the planks sit on topof the horizontal flange.

It will be appreciated that the end bars 607 may be hollow or solid. Inan example embodiment, an end bar is hollow and an end cap 608 is placedon each end of the end bar so that there is no opening through thelength of the end bar. The end cap 608 is most clearly seen in FIG. 6F.

A supporting beam 601 connects each footing member to the span member.The supporting beam 601 is best shown in FIG. 6B and it extends alongthe length of the span member. In an example embodiment, the supportingbeam is an I-beam, as shown in FIG. 6B, but other shapes of beams may beused.

As best seen in FIGS. 6B and 6E, each corner of the ground cover mat hasa lug 612 that is used to connect adjacent ground cover mats together.For example, an assembly of multiple ground cover mats is laid over alength of pipe. For example, turning briefly to FIG. 9, a first groundcover mat 200 a is connected to a second ground cover mat 200 b.

In an example embodiment, the height of the ground cover mat isapproximately 15 inches. Other ground cover mats having differentheights are applicable to the principles described herein.

In an example embodiment, the pipes 604 used in the footing member arelonger than the pipes 603 in the span member. In another exampleembodiment, the span member also includes two pipes 603′ that are eachpositioned at the outer edges and which are longer than the interiorpositioned pipes 603. These outer pipes 603′ are, for example,substantially the same length as the pipes 604 in the footing member.

FIG. 7 shows the ground cover mat shown in FIGS. 6A-6F, but includingthe wood planks placed between the pipes.

FIG. 8A shows a perspective view of another example embodiment of anadjustable ground mat 800 with a different mechanical configuration. Aspan member 801 is connected to a first footing member 802 and a secondfooting member 803. Unoccupied peg holes 805, 804 are shown. As can beseen, the wood planks are positioned side-by-side. In other words, nometal bars are positioned between the lengths of the wood planks.

It will also be appreciated that at the bottom of each footing member, asubstantially planar surface is formed by the wood planks the surroundmetal frame. In other words, the bottom surface of the wood planks andthe bottom surface of the metal frame are substantially flush with eachother. This creates a larger surface area on a footing member to supportthe weight of ground cover mat and the vehicles and equipment that driveover the ground cover mat.

FIG. 8B shows a machine lifting another span member 806 to be assembledwith the ground cover mat. One of the corner pegs 807 of the span member806 is shown, which will be inserted into a peg hole in the footingmember 803.

FIG. 8C shows the span member 806 assembled with the ground cover mat.

FIG. 8D shows the assembled ground cover mat, in this case, includethree span members 801, 806 and 808.

Turning to FIG. 9, another example of a ground cover mat 900 isprovided. This example of a ground mat is steeped at the top andincludes an arched void on the bottom. In particular, in the embodimentshown in FIG. 9, the ground cover mat includes a span member 804 and twofooting members 805 positioned below the span member.

A line (e.g. a data cable, a power cable, a cable, a hose, a pipe, anelongate structure, etc.) placed on the ground surface could beprotected by placing the ground cover mat 800 on top of the line. Thesurface line is positioned within the void. In this way, when a vehicleor equipment drives over the ground cover mat, the vehicle's weight orthe equipment's weight is distributed around and away from the surfaceline.

This ground cover mat 900 can be installed by placing it over a linethat is already positioned on the ground surface. Alternatively, theground cover mat 900 is placed on the ground first, and the line is runthrough the arched void.

The span member 904 includes two portions 908, 909 with top surfacesthat are angled relative to each other and meet at peak. The peak, inthis example, is a pipe 902 located in the center of the span member904. The span member is constructed from a metal frame that includespipes 902 with wood planks 901 positioned between the pipes. A strap 903or restraint extends over top of the wood planks to secure the woodplanks within the frame. For example, the strap 903 is metal and iswelded to the edges of the frame.

End caps 910 and 911 respectively cover the ends surfaces of theportions 908, 909. The end caps 910, 911 are angled to match the anglesof the top surfaces. The end caps also help to hold the wood planks inplace.

It will be appreciated that rough lumber may be used to form the woodplanks. In an example aspect, the wood planks are rectangular pieces anddo not have any notches. In other words, the wood planks can be easilyand quickly formed by cutting the lumber to length. In another example,the wood planks are not held in place with screws, bolts, clips,adhesive or other types of similar fasteners. Therefore, assembling thewood planks with the metal frame requires less time, effort andcomponents.

The two footing members 905 are positioned under the span member. Aportion of a tube 906, forming a semi-circle, is placed under the spanmember and between the two footing member. This tube 906 forms anarch-shaped void. The width L9 of the void is much smaller than thewidth L8 of the footing members. In this way, the weight of the vehicledriving on the ground cover mat is distributed over a wider area.

In a non-limiting example embodiment, the width L9 of the void is 24inches, such that the height of the arch is 12 inches. However, otherdimensions are also applicable.

In an example embodiment, the L8 is approximately 1.7 times greater thanL9. In another example embodiment, L8 is approximately n times greaterthan L9, where n is approximately 1.4 or more. In another exampleembodiment, n is approximately 1.7 or more.

The portion of the tube 906 is used provide a continuous and smoothsurface, which may potentially be in contact with the surface line. Inthis way, as the surface line is moved while within the void, there isless risk of the surface line being damaged by the ground cover mat 900.

Although an arched-shaped void is shown, it will be appreciated that thevoid may have different cross-sectional shapes, such as triangular,rectangular, pentagonal, or other shapes.

At each of the four corners of the ground cover mat 900, lugs 907 arepositioned to facilitate connecting two or more ground cover matstogether in series, one after the other. In particular, a bolt passesthrough a lug of a first ground cover mat and a lug of a second groundcover mat. In other words, multiple ones of the ground cover mats may beconnected together to make a cover over a length of a surface line.

Below are examples of general example embodiments and related exampleaspects.

In a general example embodiment, a ground cover mat includes two footingmembers spaced at a spanning distance from each other. Each of thefooting members include a first lengthwise outer edge and a secondlengthwise outer edge. In an example embodiment, these are not paralleledges to each other. In another example, these edges are parallel toeach other. Each of the footing members define therein multiple pegholes, and each of the peg holes are spaced at different distances fromthe first lengthwise outer edge. One or more span members are alsoincluded and each of the span members are positioned above and areremovably attached to the two footing members. Each of the one or morespan members include at least two pegs that protrude downwards, whereinone of the pegs removably fit into a given peg hole defined in one ofthe two footing members and another one of the pegs removably fit into agiven peg hole defined in another one of the two footing members.Similarly, a kit of parts including these components is also hereinencompassed.

In another general example embodiment, a system for a ground cover matincludes two footing members configured to be spaced at a spanningdistance from each other. Each of the footing members include a firstlengthwise outer edge and a second lengthwise outer edge. In an exampleembodiment, these are not parallel edges to each other. In anotherexample, these edges are parallel to each other. Each of the footingmembers define therein multiple peg holes. Each of the peg holes arespaced at different distances from the first lengthwise outer edge. Oneor more span members are also included, and each of the span members areconfigured to be positioned above and removably attached to the twofooting members. Each of the one or more span members include at leasttwo pegs that protrude downwards, wherein one of the pegs removably fitinto a given one of the pegs holes defined in one of the two footingmembers and another one of the pegs removably fit into a given one ofthe peg holes defined in another one of the two footing members. Thesystem also includes one or more ground spikes that are configured to beremovably positioned into one or more peg holes that are unoccupied bythe pegs, and the one or more ground spikes are configured to be driveninto a ground surface below the footing members.

In another general example embodiment, a method for assembling a groundcover mat includes laying down two footing members on a ground surface.The two footing members are spaced at a spanning distance from eachother and oriented substantially parallel to each other. Each of thefooting members include a first lengthwise outer edge and a secondlengthwise outer edge. Each of the footing members define thereinmultiple peg holes, and each of the peg holes are spaced at differentdistances from the first lengthwise outer edge. The method furtherincludes driving one or more ground spikes through one or more peg holesdefined in each of the footing members, such that the ground spikes aredriven into the ground surface. The method further includes placing oneor more span members above and removably attached to the two footingmembers, Each of the one or more span members include at least two pegsthat protrude downwards, wherein one of the pegs are removably fittedinto a given one of the pegs holes defined in one of the two footingmembers and another one of the pegs are removably fitted into a givenone of the peg holes defined in another one of the two footing members.Furthermore, the given one of the pegs holes defined in the one of thetwo footing members and the given one of the peg holes defined in theanother one of the two footing members are unoccupied by the groundspikes.

In a general example embodiment, an adjustable ground cover mat includestwo footing members that are spaced at a spanning distance from eachother. Each of the footing members include a first lengthwise outer edgeand a second lengthwise outer edge that are substantially parallel toeach other. Each of the footing members define therein multiple pairs ofpeg holes, and each pair of peg holes spaced at different distances fromthe first lengthwise outer edge. The peg holes within each pair of pegholes are spaced apart from each other by a first distance. The groundcover mat also includes one or more span members, with each of the spanmembers positioned above and removably attached to the two footingmembers. In particular, each of the one or more span members include atleast two pairs of pegs that protrude downwards, and the pegs withineach of the pair of pegs are spaced apart from each other by the firstdistance. One pair of pegs removably fit into a given pair of pegs holesdefined in one of the two footing members and another pair of pegsremovably fit into a given pair of peg holes defined in another one ofthe two footing members.

In an example aspect of the ground cover mat, the spanning distancebetween the two footing members is adjusted by placing the one pair ofpegs into a different given pair of peg holes defined in the one of thetwo footing members, or by placing the another pair of pegs into adifferent given pair of peg holes defined in the another one of the twofooting members, or both.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, at least one or morepairs of peg holes defined in each of the footing members are unoccupiedby the pegs, resulting in unoccupied peg holes defined in each footingmember, and wherein one or more ground spikes are removably positionedthrough one or more of the unoccupied peg holes defined in each of thefooting members.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, each of the one ormore ground spikes have a cross-section shape that is complimentary toeach of the peg holes' cross-section shape.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, each of the pegs havea cross-section shape that is complimentary to each of the peg holes'cross-section shape.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, each of the pegholes' cross-section shape is square-shaped with rounded corners.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, each of the one ormore span members are constructed from a metal frame and planks. Inparticular, the metal frame includes two outer beams connected bymultiple cross bars and a given plank is positioned between a given twoof the cross bars.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, the two outer beamsinclude an upper flange, a lower flange and a web that is positionedbetween the upper flange and the lower flange, and at least one of theupper flange and the lower flange overlap the planks to secure theplanks to a given span member.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, the planks are planksof rough lumber.

In another example aspect of the ground cover mat, there are two or morelugs positioned at one side of the ground cover mat. Each of these lugsprotrude outwards and are oriented to mate with lugs of an adjacentground cover mat.

In another example aspect, an assembly of these ground cover mats isprovided wherein multiple mats are arranged together and whereinadjacent mats are connected together.

In another general example embodiment, a kit of parts is provided, thatwhen assembled form a ground cover mat. The kit of parts include twofooting members that each include a first lengthwise outer edge and asecond lengthwise outer edge that are substantially parallel to eachother. Each of these footing members define therein multiple pairs ofpeg holes, and each pair of peg holes are spaced at different distancesfrom the first lengthwise outer edge. The peg holes within each pair ofpeg holes are spaced apart from each other by a first distance. The kitof parts further includes one or more span members having a firstlength. Each of the span members are configured to be positioned aboveand removably attached to the two footing members. In particular, eachof the one or more span members include at least two pairs of pegs thatprotrude downwards, and the pegs within each of the pair of pegs arespaced apart from each other by the first distance. One pair of pegsremovably fit into a given pair of pegs holes define in one of the twofooting members and another pair of pegs removably fit into a given pairof peg holes defined in another one of the two footing members.

In an example aspect of the kit of parts, there is also one or more spanmembers having a second length, with the second length being differentthan the first length. In particular, the one more span members havingthe second length are used to replace the one or more span membershaving the first length. In this way the spanning distance of the groundcover mat may be further adjusted or varied.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, each of the one or morespan members having the second length include at least two pairs of pegsthat protrude downwards, and the pegs within each of the pair of pegsare spaced apart from each other by the first distance. One pair of pegsof a given one of the span members having the second length removablyfit into the given pair of pegs holes define in one of the two footingmembers and another pair of pegs of the given one of the span membershaving the second length removably fit into the given pair of peg holesdefined in another one of the two footing members.

In another example aspect of the kits of parts, a spanning distancebetween the two footing members is adjusted by placing the one pair ofpegs into a different given pair of peg holes defined in the one of thetwo footing members, or by placing the another pair of pegs into adifferent given pair of peg holes defined in the another one of the twofooting members, or both.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, there are also one ormore ground spikes. For example, the one or more ground spikes have across-section shape that is complimentary to each of the peg holes'cross-section shape.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, each of the pegs have across-section shape that is complimentary to each of the peg holes'cross-section shape.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, each of the peg holes'cross-section shape is square-shaped with rounded corners.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, each of the one or morespan members are constructed from a metal frame and planks, wherein themetal frame includes two outer beams that are connected by multiplecross bars. A given plank is positioned between a given two of thesecross bars.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, the two outer beamsinclude an upper flange, a lower flange and a web that is positionedbetween the upper flange and the lower flange, and at least one of theupper flange and the lower flange overlap the planks to secure theplanks to a given span member.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, the planks are planks ofrough lumber.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, each of the footingmembers include two or more lugs positioned at least on one side of eachof the footing members, and each of the lugs protrude outwards and areoriented to mate with lugs of an adjacent ground cover mat.

In another example aspect of the kit of parts, there are also bolts thatare configured to be positioned through a hole defined in each of thelugs. In this way, adjacent ground cover mats can be connected together.

In another general example embodiment, a system for a ground cover matincludes two footing members configured to be spaced at a spanningdistance from each other. Each of the footing members include a firstlengthwise outer edge and a second lengthwise outer edge that aresubstantially parallel to each other. Each of the footing members definetherein multiple pairs of peg holes, and each pair of peg holes arespaced at different distances from the first lengthwise outer edge. Thepeg holes within each pair of peg holes are spaced apart from each otherby a first distance. The system further includes one or more spanmembers, each of the span members configured to be positioned above andremovably attached to the two footing members. In particular, each ofthe one or more span members include at least two pairs of pegs thatprotrude downwards, and the pegs within each of the pair of pegs arespaced apart from each other by the first distance. One pair of pegs areconfigured to removably fit into a given pair of pegs holes defined inone of the two footing members and another pair of pegs are configuredto removably fit into a given pair of peg holes defined in another oneof the two footing members. The system also includes one or more groundspikes configured to be removably positioned into one or more peg holesthat are unoccupied by the pegs, and the one or more ground spikes areconfigured to be driven into a ground surface below the footing members.

In an example aspect of the system, the spanning distance between thetwo footing members is adjustable by placing the one pair of pegs into adifferent given pair of peg holes defined in the one of the two footingmembers, or by placing the another pair of pegs into a different givenpair of peg holes defined in the another one of the two footing members,or both.

In another general example embodiment, a method is provided forassembling a ground cover mat. The method includes laying down twofooting members on a ground surface. The two footing members spaced at aspanning distance from each other and oriented substantially parallel toeach other. Each of the footing members include a first lengthwise outeredge and a second lengthwise outer edge that are substantially parallelto each other. Each of the footing members define therein multiple pairsof peg holes, and each pair of peg holes are spaced at differentdistances from the first lengthwise outer edge. The peg holes withineach pair of peg holes are spaced apart from each other by a firstdistance. The method further includes driving one or more ground spikesthrough one or more peg holes defined in each of the footing members.For example, the ground spikes are driven into the ground surface. Themethod further includes placing one or more span members above andremovably attached to the two footing members. In particular, each ofthe one or more span members include at least two pairs of pegs thatprotrude downwards, and the pegs within each of the pair of pegs arespaced apart from each other by the first distance. One pair of pegs areremovably fitted into a given pair of pegs holes defined in one of thetwo footing members and another pair of pegs are removably fitted into agiven pair of peg holes defined in another one of the two footingmembers. The given pair of pegs holes defined in the one of the twofooting members and the given pair of peg holes defined in the anotherone of the two footing members are unoccupied by the ground spikes.

In another general example embodiment, a ground cover mat includes twofooting members spaced at a spanning distance from each other, and oneor more span members. Each of the span members are positioned above andattached to the two footing members. Each of the one or more spanmembers are constructed from a metal frame and planks, and the metalframe includes two outer beams connected by multiple cross bars. Inparticular, a given plank is positioned between a given two of the crossbars. The two outer beams include an upper flange, a lower flange and aweb that is positioned between the upper flange and the lower flange. Atleast one of the upper flange and the lower flange overlap the planks tosecure the planks to a given span member. In a further example aspect,the multiple cross bars have at least a partially rounded cross-section,and the planks are rough lumber.

In another general example embodiment, a ground cover mat includes twofooting members spaced at a spanning distance from each other, and oneor more span members. Each of the span members are positioned above andattached to the two footing members. Each of the one or more spanmembers are constructed from a metal frame and wood planks, Inparticular, the metal frame includes two outer beams connected bymultiple cross bars and a given wood plank is positioned between a giventwo of the cross bars. Each of the cross bars have a roundedcross-section or a partially rounded cross-section. The two outer beamsinclude an upper flange, a lower flange and a web that is positionedbetween the upper flange and the lower flange. At least one of the upperflange and the lower flange overlap the wood planks to secure the woodplanks to a given span member. In a further example aspect, the woodplanks are rough lumber.

It will be appreciated that features of the mechanical configuration ofthe ground cover mat may differ from what is shown and described.

It will be appreciated that different features of the exampleembodiments of the ground cover mat, the method, the kit of parts andthe system, as described herein, may be combined with each other indifferent ways. In other words, different components and features may beused together according to other example embodiments, although notspecifically stated.

The steps or operations in the flow diagrams described herein are justfor example. There may be many variations to these steps or operationswithout departing from the spirit of the invention or inventions. Forinstance, the steps may be performed in a differing order, or steps maybe added, deleted, or modified.

Although the above has been described with reference to certain specificembodiments, various modifications thereof will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art without departing from the scope of the claimsappended hereto.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A ground cover mat comprising: two footingmembers spaced at a spanning distance from each other, each of thefooting members comprising a first lengthwise outer edge and a secondlengthwise outer edge; wherein each of the footing members includesmultiple peg holes, the peg holes being spaced at different distancesfrom the first lengthwise outer edge; one or more span members, each ofthe span members being positioned above and removably attached to thetwo footing members; wherein each of the one or more span membersincludes at least two downwardly projecting pegs, wherein one of thepegs removably fits into a first peg hole provided in one of the twofooting members and another one of the pegs removably fits into a secondpeg hole provided in the other of the two footing members; wherein eachof the pegs has a cross-sectional shape that is complementary to thecross-sectional shape of the respective peg hole; and wherein each ofthe one or more span members is constructed from a metal frame andplanks, wherein the metal frame comprises two outer beams connected bymultiple cross bars and a given plank is positioned between a given twoof the cross bars.
 2. The ground cover mat of claim 1 wherein thespanning distance between the two footing members is adjusted by placingthe one of the pegs into a different peg hole defined in the one of thetwo footing members, and/or by placing the another one of the pegs intoa different peg hole defined in the other of the two footing members. 3.The ground cover mat of claim 1 wherein at least one or more of the pegholes of the footing members are unoccupied by the pegs, resulting inunoccupied peg holes defined in each footing member, and wherein one ormore ground spikes are removably positioned through one or more of theunoccupied peg holes defined in each of the footing members.
 4. Theground cover mat of claim 3 wherein each of the one or more groundspikes has a cross-sectional shape that is complementary to thecross-sectional shape of the peg holes.
 5. The ground cover mat of claim1 wherein each of the peg holes has a cross-sectional shape that issubstantially square-shaped.
 6. The ground cover mat of claim 1 whereineach of the two outer beams comprises an upper flange, a lower flangeand a web extending between the upper flange and the lower flange, andat least one of the upper flange and the lower flange overlaps theplanks to secure the planks to a given span member.
 7. The ground covermat of claim 1 wherein the planks are wood planks comprising roughlumber.
 8. The ground cover mat of claim 1 further comprising two ormore lugs positioned at one side of the ground cover mat, each of thelugs protruding outwards and oriented to mate with lugs of an adjacentground cover mat.
 9. A ground cover mat comprising: two footing membersspaced at a spanning distance from each other, each of the footingmembers comprising a first lengthwise outer edge and a second lengthwiseouter edge that are substantially parallel to each other; wherein eachof the footing members includes pairs of peg holes, the peg holes beingspaced at different distances from the first lengthwise outer edge, andthe peg holes within each pair of peg holes being spaced apart from eachother by a first distance; one or more span members, each of the spanmembers being positioned above and removably attached to the two footingmembers; wherein each of the one or more span members comprises at leasttwo pairs of downwardly projecting pegs, and the pegs within each of thepair of pegs are spaced apart from each other by the first distance,wherein one pair of pegs removably fits into a first pair of peg holesprovided in one of the two footing members and another pair of pegsremovably fits into a second pair of peg holes provided in another oneof the two footing members; wherein each of the pegs has across-sectional shape that is complementary to the cross-sectional shapeof the respective peg hole; and wherein each of the one or more spanmembers is constructed from a metal frame and planks, wherein the metalframe comprises two outer beams connected by multiple cross bars and agiven plank is positioned between a given two of the cross bars.